#ExceedingExpectations

How to make the most of graduate fairs

Year after year many graduates face an entry level job search. In the current economic situation it does seem not to be as easy as it used to be, but with a structured approach it is not impossible to quickly find and fill a good job position.

The most important thing in the whole process of job search is to work hard on finding the perfect role and apply a work approach to finding a job.

Many people complain that they can’t fill any position which is not surprising considering that they do not treat looking for a job as a full time job itself and end up sending only one application feeling really put off once it has been rejected. Looking for a job is a constant effort requiring research and its own hard work! Don’t give up!

How to you ease the job research?

Well of there course ways in which you can make the job hunt much more enjoyable. One of these to attend graduate job fairs and exhibitions. There are plenty of them organised in many cities in the UK and Ireland.

Graduate exhibitions give you loads of opportunities to network and meet directly the people who represent the biggest companies. This is a great chance to get to know those people and make a lasting impression, showing them your passion and love for the industry.

How to make the best use of the graduate fairs?

Plan your trip by considering which companies you want to see and visit their stands first. Check the event website to find out some more detailed information on the event schedule and exhibitors profiles. Maximise on all available opportunities within the given time, try not only see the potential employees but think also about taking part in a few trainings and presentations.

Having said that, it cannot be ruled out that you will find a company you have never heard of before – which may be a great opportunity to take advantage of getting to know what this company is about and if their profile could be something of interest to you.

Make a good impression!

Look good and professional. Some companies which take part in those events are using them to create ‘watch lists’ – companies constantly look for new talent and have some graduate jobs available to the best candidates. Never fail to impress them!

If you are interested in any particular sector do your homework and research its key players, industry news etc. Never fail to impress your speakers but do not overdo it because you won’t sound natural.

Do not print too many CVs – while it may be good to have one or two just in case and also for the purpose of going through CV clinic – to find out how to improve your CV it is highly unlikely you will leave any at the companies stands…these days the application process is done online and your CV still matters provided that it is in a digital form.

Ask questions – try to ask important questions which show your interest and passion for the industry. Do not ask about generic facts, which you can easily find on their website. Concentrate on your speaker and ask about their bigger achievements/projects to date with that particular company. Ask about their job search experience. This way you can try to find out what type of candidates the companies you are interested in are recruiting in order to see if you could potentially match their expectations with your skills and experience. Try to understand better their recruitment objectives.

Networking

Stop being shy, find people to talk to and engage in as many conversations as you can. The more people you talk to the better picture of some companies you get. Treat those events as a good chance to speak to potential employees in a natural non- interview atmosphere. Try to touch on your strong points when talking to the people – make yourself remembered.

As a professional person when talking to your potential employees hand them your business card and mention any projects/portfolios they might be potentially interested in looking at. Sometimes a simple hobby may secure your first job. For example somebody who uses Forex should definitely mention that when talking to people who could offer a finance job. You never know when your hobby will help you out. Dare to be different and shout about your achievements (if you have any remarkable ones).

Follow Up

Ask the recruiters for their business card and do not hesitate to email them (relating to the points you were discussing at the event) before you apply for any jobs within their organisation.

Make your job search an amazing experience!

If however you missed out on attending any of the autumn graduate fairs visit KennedyPearce to browse their graduate accounting and finance jobs and find some useful employment news.

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